i just ran a test on 3 theories of applying thermal paste; grabbed temp just after boot and then ran Far Cry 2 benchmark 3x loop to get load. Hwmonitor to capture min/max temps, Antec Silver as paste.
Antec Silver thermal compound directions
apply small amount of silver on the heatsink using a small plastic bag. Use a lint free cloth to wipe the surface leaving a thin layer. Apply amount of silver equal to 1/2 the size of a peace of rice on the CPU. Spread with a razor.
29c on boot / 46c after Far Cry loop
Apply amount of silver equal to the size of a BB on the CPU. Spread with a razor.
27c on boot / 47c after far cry loop
Apply amount of silver equal to the size of a BB on the CPU, install the heatsink.
24c on boot / 44c after the far cry
SO THE ONE AND ONLY PROPER WAY TO APPLY THERMAL PASTE IS......
apply a small amount on the CPU or heatsink, spread it or leave it, install heatsink...enjoy
* athlon II x 435 @ 3.3 CPU with a rosewill aftermarket cooler